Increased intercourse, the extension of commerce, and the cultivation
of mutual interests have steadily improved our relations with the large
majority of the powers of the world, rendering practicable the peaceful
solution of questions which from time to time necessarily arise, leaving
few which demand extended or particular notice.
The correspondence of the Department of State with our diplomatic
representatives abroad is transmitted herewith.
I am happy to announce the passage of an act by the General Cortes
of Portugal, proclaimed since the adjournment of Congress, for the
abolition of servitude in the Portuguese colonies. It is to be hoped
that such legislation may be another step toward the great consummation
to be reached, when no man shall be permitted, directly or indirectly,
under any guise, excuse, or form of law, to hold his fellow-man in
bondage. I am of opinion also that it is the duty of the United States,
as contributing toward that end, and required by the spirit of the age
in which we live, to provide by suitable legislation that no citizen of
the United States shall hold slaves as property in any other country or
be interested therein.
Chile has made reparation in the case of the whale ship _Good Return_,
seized without sufficient cause upward of forty years ago.
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